Welcome, Rev. Jack Ford!

In the February 8 congregational meeting, members of BBUUC voted overwhelmingly to extend a contract to Rev Jack Ford to become our minister.

BBUUC’s New Minister

Rev. Jack Ford is uniquely qualified as a minister for BBUUC. As a long-time member of the congregation, he understands the strong volunteer-led personality at BBUUC, and appreciates what the volunteers bring to the table.

He is a Jacksonville native, who graduated from Wolfson High School and also attended Terry Parker High School. His mother and two brothers currently live in Switzerland, FL which is listed as Jack’s permanent address.

Jack’s skill as a carpenter is well-known in the area. His 27-year career as a carpenter started by chance, when his car broke down and he lost his job with Greenpeace. He found a job as an apprentice carpenter, then took over when his boss left the business six months later. Although he loves working with wood, he looks forward to being able to devote more energies to the ministry.

Rev. Ford grew up as a Baptist, and began his theological studies at Stetson University and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. At the UU Church of Jacksonville, he found a mentor in the Rev. John DeWolf-Hurt. As a result of this relationship, Jack entered the ministry as a Fellowshipped (Preliminary) UU minister and served at the Valdosta UU Church for seven years.

He has continued his studies in a number of different venues, including the Florida State School of Social Work, as well as training in Clinical Pastoral Education at the University Medical Center. He has a strong background in eastern religions and Native American spirituality.

The half-time position with BBUUC will aid Jack in completing his Final Fellowship certification with the UUA. This is an exciting time for both Rev. Ford and BBUUC, and we look forward to travelling this path together.